South African Army .22 Rimfire Conversion for the R4

Published on January 18, 2019
Duration: 11:15

This video details the South African Defense Force's .22 rimfire conversion kit for the R4 rifle, developed by Thor Engineering. The kit operates via an open-bolt system, requiring a full-auto hammer and utilizing a modified Mauser MN410B magazine. While functional, the design is noted as overly complex compared to other conversion methods.

Quick Summary

The South African Defense Force developed a .22LR conversion kit for the R4 rifle, manufactured by Thor Engineering. It operates via an open-bolt system, using a modified 10-round Mauser MN410B magazine, to enable cost-effective military training.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: SADF R4 .22LR Conversion
  2. 01:13Open-Bolt Mechanism Explained
  3. 01:46Mauser Magazine Integration
  4. 02:12Disassembly and Components
  5. 03:28Firing Pin & Sear Mechanics
  6. 06:27Installation Process Demo
  7. 08:58Range Testing & Live Fire
  8. 10:09Conclusion & Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the purpose of the South African Army's .22LR conversion kit for the R4 rifle?

The SADF .22LR conversion kit, developed by Thor Engineering, was designed to provide soldiers with a low-cost method for training. This allowed them to practice marksmanship and familiarize themselves with the R4 rifle's operation using cheaper .22 rimfire ammunition.

How does the R4 .22LR conversion kit operate?

This unique conversion operates as an open-bolt system. It requires the host R4 rifle to possess a full-auto hammer mechanism to function correctly, even when the rifle itself is set to semi-automatic fire.

What magazine does the R4 .22LR conversion kit use?

The conversion kit utilizes a 10-round magazine originally designed for the Mauser MN410B rifle. This Mauser magazine is fitted inside a modified R4 magazine shell to ensure proper feeding into the rifle.

What are the key components of the R4 .22LR conversion kit?

The kit typically includes a bolt carrier stand-in, a custom bolt with a ridge for firing rimfire cartridges, a chamber insert, a locking piece, and a new recoil spring. It replaces or modifies parts of the original rifle's bolt group.

Related News

All News →

More Gunsmithing & DIY Videos You Might Like

More from Forgotten Weapons

View all →